New Delhi: The Asian Development Bank (ADB) and the Government of India have signed an agreement, securing a $295 million loan. The funds will be utilized to upgrade approximately 265 kilometers of state highways in Bihar. This initiative aims to improve the roads’ climate and disaster resilience, as well as incorporate road safety elements into the design.
The agreement for the Enhancing Connectivity and Sustainability in Bihar Roads Project was signed by Mr. Vumlunmang Vualnam, who represented the Government of India, and Mr. Takeo Konishi, the Country Director for ADB in India.
The project is aimed at supporting the Government of Bihar’s initiative to upgrade all state highways to standard two-lane widths, with a focus on enhancing road safety. These improved roads will greatly improve connectivity in some of Bihar’s poorest rural districts, providing easier access to crucial health and education facilities, as well as markets. Ultimately, this initiative seeks to significantly improve the lives of the local population.
The signatories to the agreement for the Enhancing Connectivity and Sustainability in Bihar Roads Project were Mr. Vumlunmang Vualnam, Additional Secretary, Department of Economic Affairs, who signed on behalf of the Government of India, and Mr. Takeo Konishi, Country Director for ADB in India, who signed for ADB.
Among the initiatives aimed at strengthening the Bihar State Road Development Corporation Limited, there is a plan to develop a road asset management system. This system will encompass climate change and disaster risk information.
Furthermore, the Corporation will establish research laboratories at the Bihar Road Research Institute to facilitate the exploration of different materials, including those that are reusable and sustainable. These endeavors aim to mitigate the impacts of climate change. Additionally, studies on congestion management and climate adaptation will be conducted, and guidelines for implementing gender- inclusive practices in road safety measures will be created.
The project will also promote the active involvement of women by offering employment opportunities for female workers in construction projects. Additionally, women from the communities within the project areas will receive training in livelihood skills, as well as valuable information on road safety, health and hygiene practices, and awareness about abuse and harassment.
ADB has been supporting the state of Bihar since 2008, with a total of $1.63 billion in five loans. These funds have been utilized to upgrade approximately 1,696 kilometers of state highways and to construct a new bridge over the Ganga River.
